Developing Skill Level Paddles

As a developing paddler you should be a self-sufficient paddler that has some formal training, can assess hazards confidently and are comfortable in moderate conditions. You should be comfortable paddling in winds up to 15 knots and waves/swell up to 3 feet, as well as be able to self-rescue effectively in these conditions. A developing paddler can maintain an effective course in wind and waves, as well as be able to roll their kayak in open water. You should be proficient with deep water rescues and towing systems. As a developing paddler you should have an understanding of trip planning, navigation and equipment selection and be capable of paddling 15 NM over the course of a day.

This level of skill would be the equivalent of ACA L3 Skills or BCU 3 Star Skills.

Burrows & Allan Islands

This information is designed to provide basic information to help you in choosing appropriate paddle trips for your level of experience. The information may be old and outdated and I would encourage you to use several resources when a trip in unfamiliar areas. As always you are responsible for the safe operation and navigation of your own vessel. Happy Paddling!

  • The paddle around Burrows and Allan Island is quite beautiful but can be challenging due to currents. The shoreline of these island's are primarily sheer rock with sharp drop-offs, while steep hills covered with evergreens or grass make up most of the island's interior as such, landings are limited on Burrows Island and prohibited on Allan Island which is privately owned. 

    This is a great day paddle or can even be stretched into a short overnighter to just pop out and away form the hustle and bustle of life. There is a WWTA campsite & outhouse located in a small cove on the east side of the island with views of Anacortes.

    The west side of Burrows Island is where you will find the Historic Burrows Island Light House standing 57' above sea level. There is a small pocket beach on the north side of the light house that you can land at and scramble up the hillside to enjoy lunch with sweeping views of Rosario Straights and the San Juan Islands. Although tempting, please be good stewards and only camp on the east side of the island in the designated camp ground.

    Strong currents form all around the island's with particularly dangerous spots with potential for 2-3' standing waves on the south & west sides of Allan Island. Winds and currents can stronger in the passages between the islands as they are compressed going through the narrow passes. If you are not comfortable paddling in strong currents, then plan your trip during neap tides and paddle near the time of slack water.

  • SKILL LEVEL: 

    SK Rating: 

    Tide races can and do form off any point that has a stream of current going around it and opposing winds. Take care before rounding a corner and finding yourself in rough water. Winds and currents are compressed and sped up in the narrow passages between the islands.

  • Distance:
    • 9 NM
    Charts:
    Launch:
    Radio Channels:
    • VHF 16
    Weather:
    Tidal Stations:
    • Ship Harbor, Fidalgo Island (Tides)
    • Green Pt (Currents)
    • Burrows Bay, 0.5 mile east of Allan I (Currents)
    • Burrows I.-Allan I., Passage between (Currents)